It appears Nathan Gerbe may be ready to rejoin the Sabres.
Gerbe, who started the season on injured reserve after back surgery, is skating on the third line this morning with center Mikhail Grigorenko and wing Steve Ott. Coach Lindy Ruff will give an official statement on Gerbe's status following practice, but the winger's placement with the regulars is a strong indicator he will play Thursday in Carolina.
Ville Leino, meanwhile, is absent from practice. He's been dealing with a leg injury and missed the opening two games. He skated with Girgorenko and Ott throughout training camp and participated in Monday's morning skate in Toronto on a limited basis.
The other lines for Buffalo during practice are: Thomas Vanek-Cody Hodgson-Jason Pominville; Marcus Foligno-Tyler Ennis-Drew Stafford; John Scott-Jochen Hecht-Patrick Kaleta; and Matt Ellis-Cody McCormick. All eight defensemen and two goaltenders are present.
---John Vogl
